We've assumed that focusing on STEM skills, like robotics or coding, are important, but the reality is that STEM skills are enhanced and more relevant when combined with traditional, hands-on creative activities.

The best jobs for Generation Z will include computer and information systems analyst, information security analyst and software developer, according to a new report by CareerCast, a national job search site.

Planet3, a year-old company that has developed a new digital platform intended to use the Earth as a "living laboratory" will undergo pilot testing at 25 middle schools in six school districts in Nevada this fall as part of an early adopter pilot program.

A non-profit organization dedicated to ocean exploration has teamed up for a second year with an oil and gas company to deliver training to teachers on how to engage their students in related STEM topics.

Windows Holographic, a Microsoft platform that allows the combination of virtual reality, holographic computing and real-world elements, is coming to various devices in the coming months, according to Microsoft. The expansion of this "mixed reality" platform, accessible through Windows 10, was announced last week by Microsoft Vice President Terry Myerson.

According to the Information Technology & Innovation Foundation, a non-profit science and technology think tank, while there's a certain "groundswell of interest" in CS in the United States, it's still not enough to address the high demand for skilled workers among employers.

Adding problem-based learning (PBL) to science classrooms can be tough to do. As a new book by the National Science Teachers Association points out, "Valuable resources exist that describe in general what PBL is, how to develop lessons, and how PBL can help students, but curriculum resources are much harder to find."

Pitsco Education has launched STEM Expeditions, a cloud-based cross-curricular program designed to use technology and active learning to promote science inquiry, math practice and engineering design principles.

Brainly, a multinational social learning network for students and educators, has acquired OpenStudy, a similar, Atlanta-based, peer-to-peer study help platform. The combined companies are anticipated to offer students advanced online learning tools, for both inside the classroom and out.

Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District in Texas has implemented a supplemental reading curriculum for more than 100 of its early elementary classrooms to support reading instruction, particularly for at-risk students, English language learners and students with special needs.

Itron, a company that provides technology and services to improve energy and water use efficiency, has launched an interactive science, technology engineering and math curriculum in an effort to improve energy and water use literacy, encourage conservation and inspire innovation.

The MIT Media Lab's Learning Initiative has partnered with Learning Machine to release the initial version of an open-source project designed to build an ecosystem for creating, sharing and verifying education credentials based on blockchain technology.

Upcoming K–12 Grants

Sponsor: Foundation for Blended and Online Learning
Award: Up to $10,000
Number of Awards: Max of 150 applications will be considered, and up to $200,000 total will be awarded
Application Deadline: June 15

Sponsor: Toshiba America Foundation
Award: Two categories: Up to $5,000 and more than $5,000
Number of Awards: Not specified
Application Deadline: Up to $5,000 awarded on a rolling basis; Aug. 1 deadline for applications for more than $5,000

Professional Resources

THE STEAM is a monthly K-12 newsletter focused exclusively on STEM and STEM+Arts (STEAM). Each issue highlights the technologies, curriculum tools, trends and best practices that power education in science, technology, engineering, math and the arts. Issues also spotlight exceptional projects and programs taking place in schools across the nation. Please direct any questions or comments about THE STEAM to dnagel@1105media.com

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